When you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that combines beefy goodness, cheesy comfort, and tender potatoes, this Beefy Potato Taco Casserole is the perfect dish. Packed with savory flavors, melty cheese, and seasoned beef, this casserole brings together everything you love about tacos and classic comfort food.
This recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. The slow-cooked potatoes soak up all the flavors, creating a rich and delicious dish that’s as filling as it is flavorful. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd with simple, everyday ingredients.
Let’s dive into this taco-inspired casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy to Make – A simple slow-cooker recipe that requires minimal effort.
✔ One-Pot Meal – Everything cooks together, making cleanup a breeze.
✔ Hearty and Filling – Packed with potatoes, beef, cheese, and taco flavors.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Leftovers taste even better the next day.
✔ Kid-Friendly – A dish the whole family will love!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 oz taco seasoning
- 10.5 oz cheddar cheese soup
- 4 cups sliced potatoes (thinly sliced for even cooking)
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
Optional Toppings & Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
- Green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns.
- Add the chopped garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish
- Lightly grease a 6-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the dish.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the layer of potatoes.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef to infuse flavor.
- Spread the cheddar cheese soup over the top, ensuring an even coating.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over everything.
- Gently pour the beef broth around the edges to help cook the potatoes evenly.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Casserole
- Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-2.5 hours until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- If using an oven-safe slow cooker, place the casserole under a broiler for 90 seconds to brown the cheese on top.
- Let the casserole cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips for the Best Casserole
✔ Use Thinly Sliced Potatoes – This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
✔ Drain the Beef Well – Too much grease can make the casserole oily.
✔ For Extra Spice – Add cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper, or diced jalapeños.
✔ Make It Creamier – Add ½ cup sour cream to the soup mixture for extra richness.
✔ Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – It melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap Ground Beef for Ground Turkey or Chicken – A lighter alternative.
- Make It Vegetarian – Use black beans, lentils, or plant-based crumbles instead of beef.
- Use Sweet Potatoes – For a slightly sweet and nutritious twist.
- Try a Different Cheese – Pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend cheese work great.
- Add Extra Veggies – Try bell peppers, corn, or black beans for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Beefy Potato Taco Casserole pairs well with:
- Warm Tortillas – Serve it in soft tortillas for a fun twist.
- Mexican Rice – A flavorful side dish that complements the casserole.
- Guacamole or Salsa – Adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the richness.
- Cornbread – A delicious Southern-inspired pairing.
- Garden Salad – A light, fresh side to balance the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, follow the same instructions.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave until warm.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes! To freeze:
- Assemble the casserole (but don’t cook it).
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
How Can I Make It Extra Cheesy?
- Add an extra ½ cup of cheese before serving.
- Stir some cream cheese into the beef mixture for extra richness.
Can I Cook This in the Oven Instead of a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes, covered with foil. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
Conclusion
This Beefy Potato Taco Casserole is a flavorful, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, potluck, or meal prep, this recipe is easy, satisfying, and customizable.
With tender potatoes, savory beef, melty cheese, and rich taco seasoning, it’s a meal everyone will love. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting, home-cooked dinner with minimal effort!